Abstract: A rapid diagnostic test system or process uses a gated measurement of the fluorescent light from quantum dots after shutting off an illuminating light source. A delay between shutting off the illumination and measuring allows background fluorescence from substances other than the quantum dots to drop significantly when compared to the intensity of the fluorescence from the quantum dots. Using quantum dots permits high measurement repetition rates and good extinction of background fluorescence.

Abstract: Immunochromatographic test strip assays which employ semiconductor nanocrystals as detectable labels are disclosed, as are methods for detecting and quantifying one or more analytes of interest in a test sample using those assays. The test strips of the present invention permit detection and quantitation of one or more analytes of interest present in a test sample suspected of containing them, by using more than one semiconductor nanocrystal as a detectable label, each of which emits exhibits a unique emission peak.

Abstract: A clamping mechanism for an adjustable steering column for a vehicle includes an actuating lever for actuating a clamping device which is coupled to an operating lever to which is mounted an operating handle. The two levers are interconnected intermediate their ends such that one lever can pivot and slide in a slot relatively to the other and the lever having a moveable fulcrum to allow for adjustment of the steering column. The fulcrum of the lever is fixed and the geometry is such that the clamping device always returns to the same, fully locked position, regardless of the rake and/or reach adjustment position of the steering column.

Abstract: A clamping mechanism for an adjustable steering column for a vehicle includes an actuating lever for actuating a clamping device which is coupled to an operating lever to which is mounted an operating handle. The two levers are interconnected intermediate their ends such that one lever can pivot and slide in a slot relatively to the other and the lever having a moveable fulcrum to allow for adjustment of the steering column. The fulcrum of the lever is fixed and the geometry is such that the clamping device always returns to the same, fully locked position, regardless of the rake and/or reach adjustment position of the steering column.

Abstract: A method of slip casting wherein reduced pressure is applied to the mold during casting by virtue of a network of piping extending through the mold. The mold has an impermeable outer coating. Heat may also be applied to the mold during casting, by for example a heated fluid passing through piping located in the walls of the mold.

Abstract: A method of performing a handover as shown in FIGS. 2-3 for a mobile station in a multicellular environment including the steps of determining to handover from one of the plurality of microcells to the macrocell, performing handover from the one of the plurality of microcells to the macrocell; and sending a false neighbor list to the mobile station.

Abstract: Dentifrices containing an abrasive cleaning agent and a lustre agent impart an enhanced lustre to the teeth through the use as lustre agent of pyrogenic alumina.

Abstract: Dentifrices containing an abrasive cleaning agent and a luster agent impart an enhanced luster to the teeth through the use as luster agent of fumed silica obtained by vaporizing and recondensing silica.

Abstract: Oral compositions are disclosed which contain germicidally active plastic powders. The plastic powders employed are resinous materials having a germicide absorbed therein preferably in a concentration of at least about 0.1% by weight of the resin. Germicides and plastic powders suitable for use in oral compositions are discussed.